Heard of Madikeri as one of the best hill stations in Karnataka? And that this power-packed tourist spot is easily accessible on your Coorg trip. Just to start with, Madikeri is one of the eight āhottest hotspotsā of biological diversity in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city with the best air quality. And all this apart from it being exceptionally blessed with Natureās best work. But if you are wondering why you havenāt heard it if it is so unique? Well, this also adds to its charm and tranquillity! Being hidden. But not anymore, your trip to Karnataka shouldnāt be complete without Madikeri. And, your Madikeri trip wonāt be on-point if you get there without knowing the top things to do in Madikeri! Just keep reading to know your best options in Madikeri to meet your travel agenda in 2025!
Top 22 Things to Do in Madikeri On Coorg Trip
Madikeriās loaded natural beauty is a perfect spot to escape into natureās embrace and among the best places to visit in Karnataka. The whole area is covered with dense forests and tranquility to calm your soul and mind. It has so much to offer that you will be in dilemma on how to do instead of What to do? But, to your rescue, here is a quick list to refer to for top things to do in Madikeri on your trip:
1. Spot the best Sunrise and Sunset at Rajaās Seat
Rajaās Seat is one of the must-visit spots in Madikeri, that once served as the favourite leisure spot of the ruling kings of Madikeri, Kodagu. The name itself suggests āSeat of the Kings.ā The spot is known for an incredible view of the Western Ghats from the scenic viewpoint.
Location: Near Rajadarshan Hotel, Raja Seat Road, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka
Time required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Best time: October to March
Entry fees: ā¹5 per person | Toy Train: ā¹20 per person
Highlights: Enjoy sunrise & sunset, Toy train ride, the musical fountain, and a walk in the garden
Suggested Read: Top 10 Trekking Places in Karnataka: Explore the Best Trails for Adventure
2. Enjoy a Scenic view of Abbey Waterfalls
Your love for waterfalls will even grow if you visit this gushing waterfall, hidden amidst coffee and local spice plantations. It is an absolute treat to watch the white water plunging down the stones and pebbles making the surrounding lush even more greener and shimmery.
Location: Madikeri, Hebbettageri, Coorg, Karnataka
Time required: 2 hours
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Best time: July to September
Entry fees: ā¹15 per person
Highlights: Short Hiking, Panoramic views, Nature Walk, Hanging bridge, Photography
3. Tour the Historical Architecture at Madikeri Fort
Madikeri Fort is the main historical attraction displaying the rich history of Coorg. The Fort has its connections with majestic kings like Muddu Raja and Tipu Sultan for its build-up. As of now, the fort is well-maintained and open to the public housing a museum of artefacts and ancient collections from different eras.
Location: Madikeri Fort, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka
Time required: 2 hours
Timings: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Closed on Mondays
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Museum, Gothic Architecture & Stone walls, Wholesome Views of town, Library, Ganpati Temple, District Prison
Suggested Read: Complete Guide to Karnatakaās Best Time to Visit in 2025 and Future
4. Interact and Learn in Dubare Elephant Camp
Dubare Elephant Camp is like an elephant training camp, located very near Madikeri, and is one of the top things to do in Madikeri and the nearby area. It is a heaven for nature and animal lovers. You can find yourself immersed in the weird tenderness around these huge animals while interacting with them responsibly and in a friendly way.
Distance from Madikeri: 29 kilometres
Location: Kushalanagar, Coorg District, Nanjarayapatna, Karnataka
Time required: 2-3 hours
Timings: Elephant Interaction; 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM | 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: ā¹20 per person | Boat: ā¹30 per person | Elephant Activity: ā¹670 for Indians & ā¹1437 for Foreigners | Day Visit: ā¹1310 for Indians & ā¹2250 for Foreigners
Highlights: Bathing, feeding, riding, and learning about Elephants, Night Camp, Rafting, Boating
5. Sightseeing at Harangi Dam
Harangi Dam is one of the first dams to be built over the River Cauvery, becoming a popular spot with amazing natural views and calming surroundings. It is one popular picnic spot for anyone looking for private time and seclusion. The dam is 47 meters high and 846 meters wide, welcoming the cool breezes from nearby jungles.
Distance from Madikeri: 36 kilometres
Location: Harangi Dam, Hudgur, Somwarpet, Kodagu, Karnataka
Time required: 2-3 hours
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: August to September
Entry fees: ā¹10 per Adult & ā¹5 per Child
Highlights: Serene Atmosphere, Secluded Surroundings, Photography
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Karnataka: A Magical Escape
6. Seek Blessing at Omkareshwara Temple
The temple is a must-visit spot in Madikeri. Linga Rajendra Raja built this Shiva temple in 1820, showcasing the spellbinding architectural goodness of that time. The temple is built with Islamic and Gothic style with a wonderful pool in the start, being surrounded by four minarets, and a cute dome on the top of the temple.
Location: State Highway 88, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka
Time required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 6:30 AM ā 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM ā 8:00 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Worshipping, Serene Atmosphere, Calm & peaceful environment, Photography
7. Pay Homage at Gaddige Rajaās Tomb
Gaddige Rajaās tomb is a collection of tombs of Virarajendra Raja, Linga Rajendra Raja, and one of the priests of their court. The tombs are the centre of attraction in Madikeriās best tourist spots with a resemblance to the Muslim pilgrim centre and construction. There are two other small tombs too. So, witnessing the majestic architecture at Gaddige Rajaās Tomb would be a unique thing to do in Madikeri.
Location: Mahadevpet, Madikeri, Karnataka
Time required: 1 hour
Timings: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: 20 per person
Highlights: Sightseeing, Picture of Architecture, Domes and Minarets of Tomb
Suggested Read: Karnataka Unveiled: The Top 10 Must-Visit Destination
8. Witness the Beauty of Mandalpatti from Viewpoint
Mandalpatti is a popular hill range under the area of Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. The whole area is marvellous with truly breathtaking views and high cliffs showing the stunning beauty of the Coorg. If you have an adventure on your mind, trekking to Mandalpatti would be the best thing to do in Madikeri.
Location: Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Madikeri, Karnataka
Time required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: November to January
Entry fees: ā¹25 per person | ā¹1500 for Jeep ride
Highlights: Trekking, Stunning sunrise, 360-degree views, Jeep ride to the top point
9. Go Trekking at Tadiandamol Peak
Trekking to this peak is one of the best things to do in Madikeri. As the highest peak of Coorg at 1746 metres, Tadiandamol Peak is the most famous place for site trekking in Madikeri. It is a must-see spot for all the adventure and trekking enthusiasts exploring Madikeri. You will be delighted while reaching up to the surreal views of this hotspot of green diversity in Madikeri.
Distance from Madikeri: 35 kilometres
Location: Tadiandamol, Yevakapadi, Karnataka
Time required: 2-3 hours
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: December to May
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Stunning Views, Trekking, Hiking, Relaxation
10. Dip into Holy Talacauvery
Located in the Brahmagiri Hills, the holy spot of origination of the sacred river Cauvery/Kaveri is known as Talacauvery. It is a celebrated pilgrim site for Hindus with beautiful views of the towering mountain ranges. The only twist is that you will have to climb 407 steps to the main hills from the adjoining temples, making the place an adventurous journey too.
Distance from Madikeri: 48 kilometres
Location: Bhagamandala, Kodagu, Coorg, Karnataka
Time required: 2-3 hours
Timings: 6:00 AM - 8:30 PM | Mahamangalarathi: 5:45 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Holy Dip, Devotional blessings, Stunning Views, Steps Climbing, Bramhagiri Mountain Range, Bhagamandala Pilgrim site
11. Excursion at Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Witness natureās major colours that create this whole goodness of biodiversity at Madikeri in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. You will experience a beautiful mix of the rarest fauna in their natural habitat while being preserved with due care and display. Major wildlife to spot here includes deer, giant squirrels, gaurs, sambar, Nilgiri pigeon, orange flycatcher, king cobra, trogon, blue robin, and the list goes on. Indeed, a must-visit, isnāt it?
Location: Subramanya Road, Kumarahalli, Karnataka
Time required: 3-4 hours or 1 day
Timings: 5:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: ā¹75 per person | Camping will cost you separately
Highlights: Wildlife Safari, Fauna Spotting, Overnight Camping, Trekking, Mallali Waterfalls, Kumaraparvatha, Photography
12. Rinse off your Sins at Lakshman Teertha Falls
Lakshman Teertha Falls or Iruppu Falls are believed to be a sacred fall to wash away your sins like the holy Ganga. Maybe, this is the reason for it being the most popular tourist spot in Madikeri and Coorg. Well, this shouldnāt be the case as it is also a wholesome view to eyes and soul to witness the gracious water falling down the hills from 170 feet, creating a mesmerizing cascade.
Location: Brahmagiri range, Kurchi, Karnataka
Time required: 3-4 hours or 1 day
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: ā¹50 per person
Highlights: Holy Bathing, Trekking, Wildlife Spotting, Photography
13. Hiking to the third-highest peak Kotebetta
Kotebetta is another popular spot for trekking in Madikeri. It is the third highest peak in Coorg after Tadiandamol and Brahmagiri at an elevation of 1620 metres. It is one of the most popular treks in and near Madikeri to experience the best of adventures within the greenest coffee plantations and breathtaking views.
Distance from Madikeri: 30 kilometre
Location: Sirangall, Coorg, Karnataka
Time required: 3-4 hours or 1 day
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: October to March
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Sightseeing, Trekking, Wildlife Spotting, Scenic Views, Photography
14. Try Secluded Escape to St. Michaelās Church
St. Michael Church is one more religious place to visit in Madikeri. If you are looking for a peaceful and secluded place after a hectic day of wandering, this can be your place to be. The church also has modern architecture with lots of space to sit and relax while reading the bible. There is a lot of calm and peace in this place, and being there will help you instantly.
Location: Madikeri - Virajpet Rd, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka
Time required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: October to May
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Peaceful and Serene environment
15. Enjoy the Greenery at Chiklihole Reservoir
Your trip to Marikderi will not be considered complete if you havenāt spent at least a day cherishing greenery at Chiklihole reservoir. It is one of the best things to do in Madikeri. The atmosphere is very refreshing offering views to utmost greenery and peace. It can be your peaceful walk to natureās lap for some good seclusion altogether.
Location: Chiklihole Reservoir, Attur Forest, Karnataka
Time required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Best time: Any time of the year
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Captivating greenery, Rich flora & fauna, Sunset, Photography
16. Cherish the Heritage of Madikeri at Nalknad Palace
One of the best things to do in Madikeri would be to learn about the rich heritage. Nalknad Palace was built by a Haleri ruler Dodda Virarajendra Raja in the 18th century. The palace was built to protect the royals as a secret escape route in case of invasion or attack. If you want to learn about the richness of ancient Madikeri, this spot is a must-visit.
Location: Nalknad Palace Rd, Yevakapadi, Karnataka
Time required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Ancient Paintings & Carvings, Unique designs, Historical Sightseeing
17. Visit Chingara Falls and Relax Amidst Natureās Beauty
Trekking and relaxation within the Chingara Fallsā natural beauty has to be one of your top things to do in Madikeri. The fall is one bigger waterfall tucked in the vast-extended coffee estates. Even if you donāt want to trek, it is quite an accessible spot capable of an enthralling experience for its visitors.
Location: Yavakapadi Village Post, Kabbinakad, Madikeri, Karnataka
Time required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Serene atmosphere, White water, Coffee estates
18. Go on a Cycling tour to Coffee Plantations
The whole south is famous for its coffee. And no trip to Madikeri is complete without a coffee plantation tour. Walk between the mind-freshening aroma of fresh coffee beans and the lush greenery. You can even choose for guided tours and learn about the coffee-making process.
Location: Stuart Hills, Madikeri, Karnataka
Time required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: November to March
Entry fees: Free | Charges for Guided tours may apply
Highlights: Buy OG Coffee beans, Cycling, Nature walk, Photography
19. Boat Rides at Harangi Backwaters
Harangi Backwaters are the most scenic and secluded backwaters in Madikeri being located near Harangi Dam. The path to reach the backwaters is challenging after hiking along the thick jungles but still worth it. It is a great spot for family picnics, with the least crowd making it perfect for a quiet getaway.
Location: Near to Harangi Dam
Time required: 2 hours
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: November to March
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Boating, Sunrise & sunset, Hiking through the Lush Greenery, Calm waters
20. Try for short Tranquility at Nehru Mantap
When you are tired of the cityās hustle and bustle, just check in to Nehru Mantap for some peace and breathtaking views. It is one of the lesser-known places in Madikeri but would prove to be one of the best things to do in Madikeri if done right. You will be delighted to tour this area near to mountains and behind Madikeri Radio Station.
Location: Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka
Time required: 2-3 hours
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: Throughout the year
Entry fees: Free
Highlights: Sunrise & sunset, Greenery, Peaceful environment
21. Explore the Nisargadhama Islandās Bamboo Forests
Visiting Nisargadhama island is one of the top things to do in Madikeri for anyone vacationing here. The island is a delta and is one of the most popular holiday destinations near Madikeri. It is like an all-in-one package where you will experience amazing flora and fauna along with some adventure. One more cool thing about the area is that the island is reachable by a wooden bridge.
Location: Nisargadhama, Coorg, Karnataka
Time required: 2-3 hours
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best time: August to February
Entry fees: ā¹10 for Adults | ā¹5 for Children
Highlights: Wooden Bridge, Elephant riding, boating, Greenery, Peaceful environment
22. Night Camping under the Stars in Madikeriās wilderness
You can always enjoy camping in and near Madikeri for it is one of the popular things to do in Madikeri. You will thrilled with stargazing alongside bonfires and waking up to the best scenic views the next morning. It would be just fulfilling your dream of getting loved in the lap of Mother Nature herself.
Location: Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka
Time required: 1 day
Timings: 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Best time: November to February
Entry fees: Free | Camping Chargers: ā¹800 to ā¹2500 per night
Highlights: Star staring, Greenery, Bonfires
Conclusion
Madikeri is a place where everyone feels joyous and engaged for the options in this small taluk of Coorg are endless. Everything here is stationed to make sure that you are having a wonderful vacation. And with so many exciting things to do in Madikeri, you should now be worried about how you gonna cover it all instead of what you will be doing. Just get ready to explore this stunning hill station in Karnataka!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Madikeri famous for?
Madikeri is famous for its evergreen natural diversity and its tag of UNESCOās World Heritage Site. The city was even regarded as having the cleanest air quality index in India in 2024. The place is a hotspot of the best tourist spots in Southern India, making it the most popular tourist place to visit in India.
2. Which is better Coorg or Madikeri?
Madikeri is Coorg's main town or just the Coorg district's administrative office. So, there is not much difference between Coorg and Madikeri as both the places have quite similar charm and share similar tourist spots for being very close to each other.
3. Is 2 days enough for Coorg?
Yes, 2 days are normally enough for Coorgās major attractions but if you want to experience the real magic, you need to plan for 3-4 days to try your hands at major things to do in Coorg.
4. What is the best time to visit Madikeri?
The best time to visit Madikeri is during the winter season, which falls between October and May. The monsoon season (June to September) makes the place lush and green, but heavy rains restrict most outdoor activities due to safety concerns.
5. Is Madikeri good for adventure activities?
Yes! Madikeri offers various trekking and hiking routes like Mandalpatti, Tadiandamol, and Kotebetta, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers. You can even go for river rafting at Dubare and wildlife jeep safaris at Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
